PMJ was first envisioned by pianist Scott Bradlee in 2011 who, after struggling to make it as a jazz musician in New York, went viral after creating a medley of ’80s songs in ragtime style. “Ladies and gentlemen, what we are going to do is go back in time,” Douglas said. When the first song came to a close, Dani was replaced by the PMJ master of ceremonies Rogelio Douglas Jr. The stage lights steadily increased as the group approached the chorus, revealing the six-piece backing musicians and tap dancer accompanying the set. The set opened with PMJ alumna Jack Dani singing a rendition of Panic! At the Disco’s “Roaring ’20s.” Dani emerged from a spotlight in a red sequined dress and feathered headpiece as the band played the opening chords.
Playing “today’s hits, yesterday,” the touring group premiered a set of pop and rock songs in the tune of jazz, blues and swing from the ’20s to the ’50s.The group put on an astonishing, energizing performance rivaling the parties thrown in “ The Great Gatsby.” Dazzling lights, costume changes and period-setting music painted the evening with a vintage edge.
Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox made a live appearance at Laxson Auditorium on Nov.